Are you a UK national holding a Brexit card in France (officially, a “Carte de séjour – Accord de retrait”)? Better take a close look at it: the first 5-year cards issued in 2020–2021 are now reaching their expiration date!
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Until 31 December 2020, UK nationals enjoyed freedom of movement within the EU: moving to France, working or studying here required no special formalities. With the UK’s withdrawal, this changed. However, the Withdrawal Agreement protected the rights of British already settled in France before 1 January 2021 by creating a special residence permit: the “Brexit card” (officially: Carte de séjour – Accord de retrait du Royaume-Uni de l’UE). Valid for 5 or 10 years, this card allows UK nationals and their families to keep the same rights they had as EU citizens: to live, work, study, access social benefits, and travel freely. If yours was released for 5 years, it is time to think of your options for your future in France.
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Option 1: Renewal
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- 📌 When can you apply? This will mostly depend on your local Préfecture. It is always advised to check the official French government portal for the latest information. Service-public
- 📌 Automatic upgrade to 10 years If you have lived in France for at least 5 years and meet the conditions, your 5-year card will be upgraded to a 10-year permanent card upon renewal.
- 📌 How to apply? Again, the renewal process depends on your Préfecture, so it is important to check that information before moving on.
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Option 2: Long-term EU resident card
You can also request a Long-term EU residence card. To be eligible, you must have 5 years of legal and continuous residence in France. In addition, you need to meet other requirements, such as stable income, health insurance, and French language skills.ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤ
Option 3: French nationality
Furthermore, this is an option if you’ve been living in France for more than 5 years (4 years if you’re married to a French citizen), and if you meet the requirements, which include language proficiency, integration, financial resources, and a clean criminal record, among others. These conditions will become stricter in 2026 and are intended to prove your integration in France through language, taxes, work, and family, among other factors.
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⚠️ Special tip: If you leave France for an extended period and break the continuity of residence, you lose your Withdrawal Agreement rights. You would then need to apply for a standard non-EU residence permit.
At Oui Immigration, we’ve supported many British citizens since the very first Brexit procedures. We know the process inside out — and we can help you navigate every step, including local préfecture practices.ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤ
Learn more about our services or contact us today to get started.: oui@oui-immigration.com
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